The natural beauty of flowers is being preserved through resin art, which is becoming more and more popular. Whether you need to make lovely jewellery, enhance your own home, or maintain memories, making use of dried flowers in resin is an innovative and enjoyable system. However, earlier than you may locate these floral beauties in resin, you need to first make sure that they’re completely dried. In this lesson, we’re going to display the simplest way to dry flowers for resin at the same time as maintaining their colouration, form, and beauty.
Why Dry Flowers for Resin?
Before we dive into the drying procedure, please apprehend why drying flora for resin is critical. Fresh flora includes moisture, which can cause issues when embedded in resin, including discolouration, mildew increase, or wrong curing. Drying the flowers guarantees they may be free from moisture, keeping their colouration and integrity when set in resin.
Materials You’ll Need:
- Fresh flowers
- Microwave-safe container or book (depending on the drying method)
- Silica gel or heavy books
- Parchment paper
- Resin
- Gloves
- Tweezers
Step 1: Choose the Right Flowers
Selecting the right flowers is the first and maximum vital step. Some flowers dry higher than others, and their drying time might also vary. Flowers with thinner petals, which encompass pansies, daisies, and little one’s breath, are fantastic alternatives because of the fact they dry fast and hold their form well. Roses, lilies, and one-of-a-type thick-petaled flowers additionally can be used but also require greater careful drying techniques to keep their form.
If you’re looking to use dried flowers in Melbourne, consider sourcing locally grown varieties, as they are often fresher and more vibrant.
Step 2: Pick Your Drying Method
There are several methods to dry flowers, each with its advantages. Below are two of the best and most effective techniques for drying flora to later be used in resin.
1. Microwave Drying with Silica Gel
This method is quick and preserves the flowers’ vibrant colors. Follow these steps:
- Prepare the Flowers: Trim the stems and remove any leaves. Make sure the flowers are clean and dry.
- Use Silica Gel: Fill a microwave-safe container with a layer of silica gel. Place the flowers face-up on the gel, ensuring they are not touching. Gently pour more silica gel over the flowers until they are completely covered.
- Microwave the Flowers: Place the container in the microwave. Heat on low for 2-3 minutes. Check the flowers after this time. If they are not fully dried, continue heating in 30-second intervals until they are completely dry.
- Cool and Store: Let the flowers cool in the silica gel for a few hours. Once cooled, carefully remove the flowers using tweezers, shaking off excess gel. Store them in an airtight container until ready to use in resin.
2. Pressing with a Book
This method is traditional, simple, and great for flatter flowers. Follow these steps:
- Prepare the Flowers: Like the microwave method, trim and clean the flowers.
- Arrange the Flowers: Place the flowers between two sheets of parchment paper. Arrange them carefully to avoid overlapping petals.
- Press the Flowers: Place the parchment paper with flowers inside a heavy book. Add more weight by stacking additional books on top.
- Wait: Leave the flowers to press for 1-2 weeks. Check periodically to make certain they’re drying calmly.
- Store the Flowers: Once dried, cautiously put off the flowers and save them in a cool, dry location until you’re ready to apply them in your resin venture.
Step 3: Prepare Your Resin
Once your flowers are dried, it is time to put together the resin. Make certain to comply with the manufacturer’s instructions for blending and pouring resin. Always work in a properly ventilated vicinity and put on gloves to protect your pores and skin.
Step 4: Embed the Flowers in Resin
When your resin is ready, it’s time to embed the dried flowers. Here’s how to do it:
- Arrange the Flowers: Place the dried flowers in your mould or on the surface where you plan to pour the resin. Use tweezers for precise placement.
- Pour the Resin: Slowly pour the resin over the flowers, ensuring they’re completely covered. If bubbles shape, lightly tap the mould or use a warmth supply like a hairdryer to take away them.
- Cure the Resin: Allow the resin to be treated in line with the instructions. This should take anywhere from 24 to 48 hours.
- Finish and Enjoy: Once cured, dispose of the resin piece from the mould. Your dried flowers will now be superbly preserved in resin, ready to be displayed or worn as jewellery.
Tips for Success
- Choose Wisely: Select flowers that are vibrant and in full bloom for the best results.
- Work Cleanly: Ensure your flowers are free from dirt and moisture before drying and embedding them in resin.
- Be Patient: Rushing the drying process can lead to imperfections. Allow enough time for the flowers to dry thoroughly.
Where to Find Dried Flowers in Melbourne
If you’re not keen on drying flowers yourself, there are plenty of options to purchase dried flowers in Melbourne. Many local florists and craft shops provide pre-dried flowers in various hues and types, perfect for resin projects. Buying dried flowers can save you time and make sure that you’re operating with professionally dried and preserved flowers.
Conclusion
Drying flowers for resin is a simple yet delicate process that, when done correctly, can yield stunning results. Whether you choose the quick microwave method or the traditional pressing method, the key is to ensure the flowers are completely dry before embedding them in resin. By following the steps outlined above, you can create beautiful resin art that preserves the natural beauty of your favourite flowers.
For those in Melbourne, sourcing local dried flowers can add a special touch to your resin creations, making them not only beautiful but also locally inspired. Happy crafting!